Aldon Smith Records 12th Multi-Sack Game

Aldon Smith used LeBron James' signature celebration after his second sack against the Buccaneers.

TAMPA, Fla. – The 49ers always talk about “packing the defense” for road games. In a Week 15 matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the defense was packed and in addition, the pass rush made the trip as well.

The 49ers sacked Buccaneers quarterback Mike Glennon four times and held Tampa Bay’s passing game under control in a 33-14 win.

San Francisco’s constant pressure put the Buccaneers in long down and distance situations. As a result, Tampa Bay converted 1-of-10 third downs and averaged 3.7 yards per offensive play.

The third-year outside linebacker registered 2 sacks on the day giving him 12 career multi-sack performances. Smith now has 8.5 sacks on the year despite missing five games this season due to a voluntary leave of absence.

Smith added four tackles in a solid all-around performance.

“I think that’s the most consistent I’ve been,” said Smith, who has 4 sacks during San Francisco’s current four-game winning streak.

Smith’s presence as one of the game’s top pass rushers continues to be a major difference for the 49ers. In 41 career games Smith has 42 sacks.

In one of the more amusing moments of the game, the outside linebacker’s second sack was celebrated with a nod to NBA superstar LeBron James’ signature celebration.

After the game, Smith pointed to teammate NaVorro Bowman for helping him choose the well-known celebration.

“That’s that ‘Get ‘em off me type of stuff,’” Smith said with a grin.

“We’re trying to make it interesting for everybody. We’re trying to enjoy the game.”

Bowman looked over at Smith and started to smile.

“We know we’re going to make plays, we try to think of the dances to do after the plays,” said Bowman light-heartedly.

“We’re trying to let ‘em know we’re having fun out there.”

Both linebackers were feeling good after San Francisco’s road win. Patrick Willis, who recorded one of the team’s sacks, didn’t have any part in the celebratory post-play planning.

Willis, who now has 20.5 career sacks, admitted he doesn’t have a preferred dance.

“I ain’t got one,” the shy linebacker said quietly in response to Smith and Bowman.

Like Willis, Justin Smith doesn’t have a signature celebration. Maybe an intense flex here or there.

The All-Pro defensive lineman sacked Glennon, giving him 5.5 on the year. Since sacks became an official NFL statistic in 1982, the veteran lineman became the 20th player in the NFL to register at least 5 sacks in 11 seasons. Smith now has 81.0 career sacks.

The 49ers pass rush played a big role in Sunday's convincing win. They'll look to keep it around for the postseason push.